Kerstina Nasr

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Portland State University, Class of 2020

Biology, Pre-Med

What did you think about college before you attended?

I thought of college as a fun place where I would be able to have fun besides studying. But the truth is you would have to work really hard to achieve your dream, which means you would have to sacrifice part of your life to focus more in school.

How do you think being a first generation student has affected your college experience?

Being the first-generation student teach you to be responsible. It also teaches you how to be independent and work hard enough to get every possible source for help to achieve your dreams. 

What do you love about your PSU?

What I like about Portland State University is the diversity. There is a lot of international students that I can relate my personal experience to. I like the opportunities that PSU offers for the students to be successful.

How was the experience of starting somewhere new?

It’s always hard to start somewhere new. But being an immigrant I already had live this experience before when I left my home country so, it was easier for me to adapt to PSU.

What has been the most impactful experience during your time in college?

The most impactful experience I had during my time in college is being a mentor leader for international students. Being able to help other students who just arrived in the US helps me to be a better leader and responsible.

What does it mean to you to have been chosen as a Renaissance Scholar?

I am honored to be chosen as a Renaissance Scholar because I wouldn’t be able to go to school if it wasn’t for them.